2012 IN REVIEW: Top 10 running trends of the year

Just a few decades ago, running shoes were a trend. Come to think of it, running was a trend. Now we create obstacles to run through, have satellites track us and compete with each other just to register for races. But we're not complaining. These trends – and others we saw in 2012 – are signs of a healthy, evolving sport: 10. Mud Runs, Other Unconventional Races Keep Growing Races with obstacles drew more than a million participants in 2012. With names like Tough Mudder, Warrior Dash and Spartan Race, the assorted series offer variations on the theme that regular running is too boring or that modern life is too removed from elemental challenges, and offer as antidotes mud pits, climbing walls, barbed wire, maybe even a little fire. Fans say obstacle racing demands greater athleticism and strength than simply running from point A to point B as fast as possible. Detractors ...